CD: Iz Kamakawiwo'ole,israel & the Makaha Sons: Unforgettable (2008)

Israel Kamakawiwo‘ole, with his iconic recording of “Over the Rainbow / What a Wonderful World”, was a much revered, huge Hawaiian recording star – both physically and musically. His solo recordings have sold huge numbers since their release starting in 1990, one going Platinum.

We lay claim to Israel’s first solo CD Ka ‘Ano‘i, recorded while he was still a member of the equally iconic Mäkaha Sons of Ni‘ihau. In their last decade ending in 1993, they recorded some of the most magical and incredibly beautiful music on the planet. This compilation features some of the best from Israel – or “Iz” as he is affectionately known – and the Mäkaha Sons of Ni‘ihau. Nine songs were selected from Puana Hou Me Ke Aloha, Ho‘öla, Mäkaha Bash 3, and Ho‘oluana. Seven songs are from lead singer Iz’s solo project Ka ‘Ano‘i.

These five recordings were also recognized with multiple Nä Hökü Hanohano Awards (the Grammy Awards of Hawaiian Music) including two Album of the Year and four Group of the Year distinctions. And for Iz’s Ka ‘Ano‘i the recognition of Male Vocalist of the Year and Contemporary Hawaiian Album of the Year. In compiling the selections and reviewing the master tapes, many wonderful surprises came to light: different vocal and instrumental tracks and even a track that that didn’t make the cut. “Paper Doll,” written in 1915 and a big hit for the Mills Brothers and Frank Sinatra, was a particularly serendipitous find and a first “new release” for Iz in over a decade.

All of songs from the Ka ‘Ano‘i sessions are remixed with new arrangements. The lead cut “Over the Rainbow / What a Wonderful World” features a different vocal track and new instrumental tracks to yield a new recording of the classic Iz tune. “Kainoa” loses all instrumental accompaniments, which showcases the best voice of his recording career.

The Mäkaha Sons of Ni‘ihau tracks featuring Iz in the lead vocal spot serves as the segue from their early recordings to his solo efforts. From the opening medley “Over the Rainbow / What a Wonderful World” (and its “special message” at song’s end) to the closing of “I’ll Remember You” this album captures the magic of the Mäkaha Sons of Ni‘ihau and Israel Kamakawiwo‘ole.

It’s a walk down a new memory lane: Unforgettable – the era, the voice, the music.